Devils claw is an African plant with long-established medicinal properties, but a long drought has pushed it closer towards extinction, and scientists around the world are scrambling to preserve its unique compounds. The scientific community believes the plant may hold the key to effective treatments for a range of conditions including arthritis and tendonitis. Its
Besides ensuring the proper development of a baby’s nervous system, folic acid can reduce the risk of a number of birth defects. Now, researchers are saying that its protective effects may even extend to a child’s later risk of colon cancer. A study published in the medical journal Gut found that laboratory rodents fed folic
Many pregnant women already take folic acid as a nutritional health supplement to prevent congenital defects, but they may be able to use it for more than prevention. Research done at the University of Manchester and Lancaster opens the possibility of treating hydrocephalus, a change in cerebrospinal fluid which can lead to brain damage and
Taking a daily multivitamin, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, consuming dietary supplements and exercising are ways that many people try to stay healthy. Now, research published in the journal Atherosclerosis has announced that nutrition experts may one day be able to put clients on individualized eating plans. The study said that Professor Mike Gibney
News of deaths related to certain blood thinners and of the still-rising cost of prescription drugs may lead to more people considering alternatives like herbal supplements. Patients who were prescribed Baxter Heparin, a blood thinner that was found to be contaminated while being produced in a Chinese factory, are being advised by at least one
Having a food allergy can be an irritating or even dangerous condition, which is why many adults choose to take dietary supplements as a way of maintaining good nutrition while side-stepping certain allergens. When it comes to ordering food in a restaurant, however, researchers say that customers should not rely on waitstaff to arrange a
Fish oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, may help prevent bone density loss in former astronauts, according to a study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Medicine. To improve the loss of bone density in astronauts returning from space, a team of scientists from NASA observed the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on
Two new studies have found a possible reason for the high cholesterol epidemic across the country. Researchers have been using fruit flies to understand the effects of cholesterol in the body. According to the studies, the flies have the same molecular mechanisms as humans that helps them maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The first study, published
With obesity and type 2 diabetes more prevalent than ever in the U.S., any natural remedy for high blood sugar can provide welcome relief. Enter cinnamon according to Natural News, the common spice can stimulate the body into processing glucose more efficiently. The health news source stated that multiple clinical trials have demonstrated the
Slight weight changes may alter blood pressure measurements in overweight adolescents, according to a study presented at American Heart Association’s High Blood Pressure Research 2010 Scientific Sessions. Throughout more than 10 years of follow ups, the blood pressure, height and weight was monitored among a total of 1,113 children. The researchers then compared each child’s